A prospective observational study of the yield of olfactory ensheathing cells cultured from biopsies of septal nasal mucosa

OBJECTIVE: We sought to study the yield of olfactory ensheathing cells from biopsies of the mucosa of the nasal septum. These specialized cells encourage regeneration of nerves of the central nervous system and may be of value for spinal cord and nerve injuries. METHODS: We undertook a prospective observational study of biopsies of nasal mucosa by endonasal dissection of the mucosa of the nasal septum during the approach for routine transsphenoidal surgeries. Samples were cultured in the laboratory, and the yield of olfactory ensheathing cells was compared as to the location, size, and weight of the biopsies and the age of the patients. RESULTS: A better yield of olfactory ensheathing cells was obtained from areas of the septum that were more superior and posterior in position. The yield was not related to the size of the biopsy or the patient's age. CONCLUSION: Septal mucosa is a possible source of olfactory ensheathing cells, although the yield may be smaller than that which may be obtained from mucosa of the lateral nasal cavity and superior turbinate.